How to replace '02 Tribute rear window hinges
 

Hello, Tributers! Love my Trib!

The two hinges on my '02 rear tailgate window broke. Actually, it was both the torx screws that fasten from the inside that broke. Will try using the same off a salvaged Ford explorer (they look the same - Mazda/Ford connection). The first attempt was too hard as the window supports kept expanding, making it hard to position the window for hinge attachment.

Questions:

1. Will these Ford screws work for me?
2. Is there a preferred way to make the repair? It looks easy enough/would
rather do this myself versus paying for a likely high cost dealer repair.
3. Do I need to unhinge the lift supports?

Thank you very much! PROUD OF MY TRIBUTE!!! 203K on this puppy that is purring right along!!! :) Those of you that can top my miles, I am curious how many yours have...! :rolleyes:

The Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute and Mercury Mariner are virtually all identical, what you found is the big brother to them, the Ford Explorer is definitely a different beast BUT the hinges may be the same and therefor the screws as well. Best bet would be to try and find an Escape/Tribute/Mariner instead, that way you know the parts are correct.